Vietnam is rich in history, folklore, and visual symbolism—making it an incredible source of inspiration for tattoos. Whether you’re visiting Da Nang or you’re a proud local, choosing a design rooted in Vietnamese culture adds a layer of depth and meaning to your tattoo.

At Lantern & Moth Tattoo Da Nang, we’ve worked with clients who want something beautiful and meaningful—something that reflects the spirit of Vietnam. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next piece.

Lotus Flower – Purity and Strength

The lotus grows from muddy water but rises clean and beautiful, untouched by its surroundings. In Vietnamese culture (and Buddhism), it symbolizes purity, resilience, and rebirth.

• Great for simple minimalist designs all the way to stylised full colour pieces.

Lotus Designa by Lantern and Moth Tattoo, Da Nang, Vietnam.

Dragon – Power, Protection, and Prosperity

Vietnamese dragons (rồng) are different from Western dragons. They’re benevolent creatures representing power, nobility, and good fortune. Often tied to royalty and mythology, the dragon is a timeless design.

• Design style: Flowing, cloud-wrapped forms with cultural details

• Ideal for: Sleeves, back pieces, or full-leg tattoos

Lanterns, Fans and Conical Hats – Light and Tradition

From the glowing streets of Hoi An to rural rice fields, some of the most iconic visuals in Vietnam are the paper lantern, traditional fans and the nón lá (conical hat). Lanterns often symbolise guidance, peace, and celebration, while the conical hat represents hard work, humility, and cultural heritage.

•. Style ideas: Soft watercolor lanterns, sketch-style conical hat scenes

• Fantastic for all tattoo styles

• Great for: All positions from a small filler piece to an intricate half back piece.

a selection of Vietnam themed tattoos by Lantern and Moth Tattoo, Da Nang, Vietnam.

Buffalo – Strength, Patience, and Simplicity

The water buffalo is a long-standing symbol of the Vietnamese countryside and appears in both real life and folklore. It represents strength, quiet determination, and rural life—a beautiful tribute to Vietnam’s farming roots.

• Popular with: Travelers who connected with local culture and rural experiences

Water buffalo tattoos done in three different styles at Lantern and Moth Tattoo, Da Nang, Vietnam.

Cranes and Turtles – Longevity and Wisdom

In Vietnamese folklore, the crane (hạc) symbolizes spiritual elevation, and the turtle (rùa) stands for wisdom and long life. These animals often appear in temple carvings and ancient stories.

• Combine them with floral or wave motifs for added movement and balance

Mountains, Beaches, and Natural Landscapes

Whether it’s the Marble Mountains near Da Nang, the beaches of My Khe, or misty hills in Sapa, Vietnam’s landscape is full of tattoo-worthy inspiration. These natural elements create deeply personal designs for people who feel connected to a place.

• Design options: Realistic, abstract line work, or geometric interpretations

• Great for: Visitors wanting a subtle but meaningful souvenir

Vietnam themed tattoo designs tattooed at Lantern and Moth Tattoo Studio Da Nang, Vietnam.

Lạc Bird – National Identity and Ancient Myth

The Lạc bird (Chim Lạc) appears on ancient Đông Sơn drums and is believed to represent Vietnam’s mythical origins and connection to the heavens. With its sweeping wings and distinctive crest, it’s a powerful symbol of national pride and cultural roots.

Lion Dance – Energy, Joy, and Celebration

Seen during Tết (Lunar New Year) and festivals, the lion dance (múa lân) brings good luck, strength, and protection. The bold shapes and vibrant motion of the lion make for energetic, detailed tattoos full of life and movement.

• Great for: Calf, upper back, or dynamic forearm pieces

• Especially meaningful for those who’ve experienced Vietnamese festivals firsthand

Vietnamese tattoos by local artists in Da Nang tattoo studio Lantern and Moth Tattoo.

Bonsai and Penjing – Balance, Patience, and Artistry

While bonsai and its Vietnamese counterpart cây cảnh or penjing reflect Chinese influence, they’ve become a local art form in their own right. These miniature landscapes symbolize care, harmony, and meditative growth.

• Ideal for: Fine-line tattoo lovers or those seeking peaceful, nature-inspired art

• Pairs beautifully with cranes, turtles, or subtle spiritual elements

Ready to Create Something Personal?

Vietnam offers more than beautiful views and great food—it offers centuries of symbolism and storytelling. If you’re inspired by Vietnamese culture and want a custom piece to reflect it, we’d love to help bring your vision to life.

At Lantern & Moth Tattoo Da Nang, we specialize in custom designs and work closely with every client to ensure your tattoo is personal, beautiful, and respectful of its origins.

We especially love the challenge of turning whatever was most meaningful or memorable during your own time in Vietnam into a lasting piece of art—whether that’s a buffalo you photographed in the countryside, the lanterns of Hội An, or a quiet moment on the beach.

Original Vietnam themed designs by Da Nang tattoo artists at Lantern and Moth Tattoo Da Nang.

Tattoo Ideas Inspired by Vietnamese Culture and Symbolism